Easy & Affordable Dublin

The Irish capital beckons to Americans with a short flight, easy customs, an array of affordable hotels and restaurants, and the friendliest locals on the planet.

Please enjoy our “day in the life” video of Dublin, above. And should you wish to re-trace the steps of videographer Chalkley Calderwood, here’s how:

Dublinbikes

To explore Dublin on a bicycle, opt for a pay-as-you-go Dublinbike (dublinbikes.ie). You purchase a Smart Card at one of 40 stations around the city, pay a security deposit, and then a flat fee per half-hour.

St. Stephen’s Green, Phoenix Park, and More

Dublin’s public green spaces rival those of any major European city. Stroll in manageable St. Stephen’s Green and ogle sculptures including the classic Oscar Wilde bronze reclining on a rock. For a bigger expanse of green, the Phoenix Park is the place to go.

Street Musicians and Dancers

Be prepared to hear authentic Irish music and witness folk dancing just about everywhere you turn in Dublin (and the occasional rendition of other musical styles, from Broadway show tunes to Pink Floyd classics). But the very best place to immerse yourself in traditional Irish music may be at one of Dublin’s…

Pubs

Legend has it that it’s impossible to cross the city of Dublin without passing at least one pub. Although an accurate count of the city’s pubs seems to be impossible (and, believe us, we’ve tried), suffice it to say you’re never more than a short stroll from a pint glass, meat pie, and traditional Irish music. Spend enough time in a Dublin pub and you may be asked to sing along. We encourage you to do so. Some pubs, such as the Hairy Lemon, successfully mingle traditional ales with an upscale menu that packs in foodies alongside soccer fans.

Iconic Must-Sees

Drop by Trinity College to see its justly legendary library and the Book of Kells, one of the most significant illuminated manuscripts of the middle ages. Walk across Ha'penny Bridge (or any number of the other bridges over the River Liffey), and stroll Grafton Street for a taste of Dublin's vibrant street life, cool shopping, and even gelato.

Day Trips

Don’t miss the chance to get outside the city to experience small town charm at Malahide (which boasts a castle dating back hundreds of years to the conquests of Henry II) and other nearby communities. And take a few hours to visit Dublin’s seashore and take a refreshingly chilly dip.

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